Cowboys fans: It’s time to officially start getting our hopes up again. 🏈 The first preseason game is Saturday.

The Cowboys finished last year with a 7-9-1 record—and a defense we’d probably all prefer to forget. (But hey, the team’s considered the most valuable in sports. That’s something, right?)

Football is back, y’all. If you’re more of a casual fan like me, though, make sure to check out our Dallas Cowboys 2026 guide.

Soirée Coffee Bar is located in the Trinity Groves area of Dallas. (Joi Louviere/ Courier Texas)

By Sydni Ellis

Dallas-Fort Worth is often called a melting pot because of the many diverse cultures and traditions of those who live here. There are many, many restaurant options that offer unique tastes and flavors from all over the world. DFW is a mecca for foodies—so much so that sometimes it’s difficult to choose where to dine out.

In August, narrow it down by eating at one of the beloved Black-owned restaurants in DFW in honor of Black Business Month! From Mediterranean cuisine to breakfast options and mouth-watering southern-style food, you’ll be set the rest of the month at these establishments.

💾 Pause for effect: The Fort Worth City Council has approved a 90-day pause on data center construction. Residents say it’s just the first step in an ongoing fight for more regulation.

📚 Plot twist: Dallas libraries avoided potential branch closures earlier this year, but now another round of cuts could be coming: A proposed city budget would eliminate around 70 library positions and reduce hours across all branches.

☀️ Too cool for school: With Texas students heading back to class in triple-digit heat, a Denton County lawmaker wants to push the start of the school year to September. (WFAA)

✏️ Top scores: We all know teachers don’t get nearly enough recognition for the work they do shaping the young minds of kiddos. Let’s hear it for the Fort Worth educators recently named the top teachers of 2026. (Fort Worth Magazine)

🥾 Worth the wait: A trail project first envisioned more than 80 years ago is one step closer to reality: The Five Mile Creek Greenbelt in southern Dallas just landed a $2 million federal grant to help build out its planned 17-mile trail network. (KERA)

🍴 Forks for good: Here’s your excuse to try somewhere new: DFW Restaurant Week is happening right now, with participating restaurants offering special prix-fixe menus while giving a portion of the proceeds to local charities.

Is it easier for you to learn about what’s happening in Texas and beyond through video? Check out our cut-to-the-chase videos! 

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Joi Louviere with a story from Sydni Ellis. It was edited by Kimberly Lawson.

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